Ohio State at Michigan: Wolverines coach Rich Rodriguez could definitely use this win to close on a high note and earn a bowl bid. Won’t happen as the Buckeyes overpower their interstate rivals who are a year away. Ohio State 28, Michigan 13

Connecticut at Notre Dame: The Huskies have been on the short end if too many losses this season, both on and off the field. Charlie Weis’ fate is sealed at the conclusion of this game. Connecticut 24, Notre Dame 20

Ole miss at LSU: The Tigers were in a stupor last week against Louisiana Tech, trailing at the half before coming back to win. The Rebels wrap up a Cotton Bowl berth with Dexter McCluster running wild. Ole Miss 30, LSU 27

Clemson at Virginia: Two years ago, Clemson was a win away from the ACC Championship game before letting it slip away. C.J. Spiller won’t let that happen on Saturday and solidifies an invitation to New York for the Heisman ceremony. Clemson 41, Virginia 20

Cal at Stanford: Tobey Gerhart is the nation’s best player that fans on the East Coast are just hearing about. Problems at QB for Jeff Tedford and the Golden Bears continue as the Cardinal stay alive for a Rose Bowl berth. Stanford 35, Cal 17

Oregon at Arizona: The winner of this game will emerge as the odds on favorite to earn a Rose Bowl berth versus Ohio State. Jeremiah Masoli gets back on track in Tucson. Oregon 30, Arizona 20

Minnesota at Iowa: Although the Hawkeyes won’t be headed to the Rose Bowl, they still have an opportunity to play in a premier bowl game – likely the Orange Bowl or Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. Kirk Ferentz’s squad makes their case for the BCS. Iowa 24, Minnesota 10

Oklahoma at Texas Tech: Both teams are 6-4 and playing for a “better” bowl position. The Sooners maintain their poise and make it happen against the Red Raiders in Lubbock. Oklahoma 27, Texas Tech 24

Agree or disagree? Let me know – and why – below.

Here’s our picks for this weekend’s games.

Georgia Tech at Duke: Last week’s heroics by Jonathan Dwyer (not to mention a great 4th down call by Paul Johnson) let the Jackets slim BCS title hopes alive. A victory this weekend would secure a spot in the ACC Title Game and likely an Orange Bowl berth. No other motivation required. Georgia Tech 30, Duke 13

Alabama at Miss State: The Bulldogs have played very well at home this season and easily could have posted victories over Florida and LSU. This should be close fir a half, but Mark Ingram will be too much for the boys from Starkville to handle. Alabama 34, Miss State 17

Florida at South Carolina: South Carolina always starts the year with a flurry and seems to fade late in the year. No Black Magic for the Gamecocks, just fade to black. Florida 24, South Carolina 13

Utah at TCU: There wont be a more exciting game on Saturday than this one. Win, and the Horned Frogs have cleared their biggest remaining hurdle to a BCS bowl game. Should Texas lose, the BCS rankings will get interesting for the 4th ranked Horned Frogs. TCU 23, Utah 17

Iowa at Ohio State. Two weeks ago, the Hawkeyes had arguably the Big 10′s best QB. Now, Ricky Stanzi is injured and Terrelle Pryor has found his mojo once more. That doesn’t bode well for Iowa. Ohio State 30, Iowa 10

Notre Dame at Pittsburgh: Lose this one and the Irish are looking for a new coach – likely named Nick Saban or Urban Meyer. Panthers RB Dion Lewis runs wild and creates a ton of headaches in Gainesville and Tuscaloosa. Pitt 28, Notre Dame 24

Stanford at USC: Two years ago, the Cardinal pulled off one of the most improbable victories ever against the Trojans. Both of these teams are still alive for a Rose Bowl berth, but need some help. Pete Carroll and the Trojans will keep Tobey Gerhart in check as USC stays on track for an at-large BCS berth. USC 27, Stanford 17

Agree? Disagree? Let me know your thought below.

Florida State at Clemson: Amazingly, these two teams are both in the running to still make an appearance in the ACC Title Game. Clemson’s C.J. Spiller, who should be a significant Heisman candidate, has been a difference maker all season. Saturday is no exception. Clemson 34, FSU 31.

Ohio State at Penn State: Has anyone’s stock fallen faster than Buckeyes QB Terrelle Pryor? Once a rising star, now many around the program question if he can still lead the team. Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions continue their quest for a BCS berth. Penn State 27, Ohio State 17.

Oklahoma at Nebraska: This game used to be one of the season’s biggest. Now, the loser is out of the running for the Cotton Bowl. Oklahoma 30, Nebraska 24.

Navy at Notre Dame: With the Big XII, ACC and Pac-10 all sending (likely) one team to the BCS, the door could be opened for Notre Dame – if they can win out. Pittsburgh, Connecticut and Stanford still pose threats, but the Irish earn some redemption. Notre Dame 30, Navy 23.

Oregon at Stanford: Early in the season it appeared that Stanford would be the better team in this matchup. The Ducks and Jeremiah Masoli need to keep winning big in the hopes of earning a BCS Championship bid. Oregon 41, Stanford 24.

USC at Arizona State: After last week’s destruction at Autzen against the Ducks, the Trojans need some big wins to get back into the BCS conversation instead of being relegated to the Holiday Bowl. It will be anything but a holiday on Saturday for the Sun Devils. Southern Cal 38, Arizona State 17.

Georgia at Florida: The last two times Georgia had a week off before the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party”, they won the game. Florida has won 16 of the past 19 contests, with the two most recent circled with controversy. Georgia head coach Mark Richt had his team storm the field in the 2007 victory. Urban Meyer, meanwhile, called two late timeouts at the end of last season’s 49-10 destruction of the Dogs. Although it won’t be the same margin as 2008, the Gators march on towards Atlanta. Florida 31, Georgia 20.

Miami at Wake Forest: With Virginia Tech’s loss on Thursday night, the Hurricanes can earn a spot in the ACC Championship Game should Georgia Tech slip up. With ‘Canes RB Javarris James out for the game, Wake QB Riley Skinner will all but assure the Yellow Jackets the Coastal Division title. Wake Forest 20, Miami 17.

Kansas at Texas Tech: If you’re looking for offense on Saturday, this is your game. Kansas QB Todd Reesing and Red Raiders QB Taylor Potts have combined to throw for 30 touchdowns in 2009. Both of these squads need a victory to get back on track heading down the stretch. Kansas 34, Texas Tech 31.

Kansas State at Oklahoma: Bill Snyder’s return to Manhattan, Kansas was met with a great deal of skepticism, but he has delivered unexpected results so far leading the Wildcats to a 5-3 start. Meanwhile the Sooners have officially begun life after Sam Bradford who announced this week he’s heading to the NFL. Although we expect KSU RB Daniel Thomas to have a big game, Sooners QB Landry Jones will make Synder wish he hadn’t returned to the College Football scene. Oklahoma 42, Kansas State 21.

South Carolina at Tennessee: Every coach has exacted their revenge on Vols head coach Lane Kiffin for his offseason remarks. Watching Spurrier’s offense match up with Monte Kiffin’s defense will be intriguing throughout four quarters. After playing several close games, Jonathan Compton and the Tennessee rushing attack finally get over the hump. Tennessee 20, South Carolina 17.

Texas at Oklahoma State: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant is a difference maker. The problem is he won’t be playing in this game as he continues to serve a suspension for lying to the NCAA. The Longhorns clear their biggest remaining regular season hurdle in Stillwater. Texas 38, Oklahoma State 24.

USC at Oregon: Barring a late season collapse, the winner of this game will play in the Rose Bowl, if not the BCS National Championship Game. The loser likely earns a berth to a BCS game as well. Oregon’s Autzen Stadium is one of the toughest places in the country to play, but after being battle tested at Ohio State, Notre Dame and Cal, the Trojans have the moxie to “fight on” for the win. USC 28, Oregon 20.

Tennessee at Alabama: This rivalry was big before Lane Kiffin arrived in Knoxville. Jonathan Compton gets gobbled up by the Tide defense. Alabama 30, Tennessee 17.

Oregon State at USC: Pete Carroll says he’s not into revenge for one happened last year. He just wants his team to play up to their ability. Mission accomplished. USC 28, Oregon State 14.

TCU at BYU: The Horned Frogs are gaining more and more respect each week – not to mention a rise in the ratings as they are poised to enter the Top 5 in the weeks ahead. This game looked a lot more dangerous before Florida State went in and exposed the Cougar defense. TCU wins it the old fashioned way – with defense. TCU 20, BYU 10.

Auburn at LSU: The last two games on the Bayou in this series came down to the final play. It’s not going to be that way Saturday night in Death Valley. Auburn’s offense starts to rebound, but not soon enough. LSU 24, Auburn 17.

Clemson at Miami: For all of the mystery surrounding Clemson’s record, they seem to have finally found some answers last weekend against Wake Forest. In the surprise of the ACC season, the Tigers send the Hurricanes out to sea and keep a glimpse of an ACC Championship alive. Clemson 23, Miami 20.

Georgia Tech at Virginia: Amazingly, the Jackets haven’t won in Charlottesville in 19 years – the same season they won the UPI National Championship. After making some early season adjustments, Paul Johnson and his team will roll over a resurgent Cavalier squad. Georgia Tech 34, Virginia 24.

Penn State at Michigan: The Wolverines have one of the most dominating home atmospheres which contributes to a lot of questions regarding their recent home performance. Something’s got to give on Saturday when the Nittany Lions, who haven’t won in Ann Arbor in 13 years, come to town. Penn State 24, Michigan 23.

South Florida at Pittsburgh: With a win on Saturday, the Panthers will match their best start since NFL Hall of Fame QB Dan Marino was under center. The 20th-ranked Pitt squad is also 3-0 in the conference, but have a tough closing stretch with Notre Dame, West Virginia and Cincinnati to close out the regular season. But that’s another story. As for Saturday, RB Dion Lewis continues to deliver and puts the Bulls out to pasture. Pitt 27, South Florida 20.

Great news: We’re now into the meaty part of the conference schedule, with most of the cupcake games out of the way.  Things will start to heat up as the race for the BCS Bowl Games and National Championship moves into full swing.

Starting tonight, we’ll have some big games on the schedule.  Here’s the college football predictions for the weekend of October 17th.

Pittsburgh at Rutgers (Friday): Five of the eight teams in the Big East have only one loss, including both the Panthers and the Scarlet Knights.  Pitt RBs Dion Lewis and Ray Graham will lead the charge as Coach Wannstedt finally gets his first win against Rutgers after five tries.  Pitt 28, Rutgers 20.

Texas vs. Oklahoma (Dallas): This game was supposed to be for a berth to the Big XII Championship game and for the rights to face Florida in the BCS National Championship game.  Although Sooners QB Sam Bradford is back, he’s too late to stop the Longhorns train to Pasadena.  Texas 30, Oklahoma 20.

Alabama vs. South Carolina: The past king of the SEC, Steve Spurrier, and the Gamecocks take on the future king of the SEC in Nick Saban’s Tide.  This is a classic trap game for Alabama with Lane Kiffin and the Vols rolling into town next weekend.  It will be close early, but look for QB Greg McElroy to make some key throws down the stretch to separate these two squads.  With this win, RB Mark Ingram will continue to keep his name in the Heisman Trophy conversation.  Alabama 21, South Carolina 17.

USC at Notre Dame: Speaking of the Heisman, can you believe it’s been more than 20 years since anyone from Notre Dame has taken home the disctinction?  It’s true, the last was Tim Brown in 1987.  Although the Irish are winning and Jimmy Clausen is getting some love for the award, you get the sense he needs a big win in order to step ahead of Tebow and McCoy.  He’ll give it his best shot, but it won’t be enough.  USC 31, Notre Dame 17.

Cal at UCLA: When the season opened, the Bears had dreams of playing in the Rose Bowl.  Unfortunately, they were talking about the game played in January, not this matchup with the Bruins.  Cal needs this one to keep the season from being a complete disaster.  They’ll get it.  Cal 24, UCLA 21.

Iowa at Wisconsin: The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde show heads to Madison for a big-time showdown against the Badgers.  Iowa out-hustled the Badgers last season.  In a victory for pride everywhere, Wisconsin ends Iowa’s bid for perfection.  Wisconsin 20, Iowa 16.

Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech:  This one is really intriguing.  With a win here, the Jackets create a log jam at the top of the division between themselves, the Hokies and Miami.  If Tyrod Taylor can lead his team to victory, it’s a near guarantee they will reach the ACC Championship Game in Tampa.  Virginia Tech has too much riding on this game to let it slip away.  Virginia Tech 34, Georgia Tech 24.

Arkansas at Florida: The Hogs with QB Ryan Mallett are really firing on all cylinders on offense scoring 48, 44, 41 and 47 points in a 3-2 start to the season.  Unfortunately, they posted only seven points in a 35-7 loss against Alabama.  The Gators defense, led by Brandon Spikes, isn’t quite that good, but close enough.  Florida 31, Arkansas 13.

Missouri at Oklahoma State:  Suspended Cowboys WR Dez Bryant told the NCAA this week he is “very, very sorry.”  Unfortunately, he still isn’t eligible, which is bad because OSU really, really needs him.  Missouri QB Blaine Gabbert gets back on track after a horrendous performance last week against Nebraska.  Missouri 27, Oklahoma State 24.

Kansas at Colorado: The Buffaloes are feeling a little flat after letting a first half lead against Texas eviscerate on the way to a second half beatdown.  Confidence of the Buffs defense is not high after the 38 points they allowed last weekend.  At here comes Todd Reesing and the Jayhawks, who are looking to secure a BCS berth – or more.  When is Reesing going to get more love for the Heisman?  Answer: After they defeat Oklahoma next weekend.  Kansas 41, Colorado 20.

Feel free to leave your comments below and, as always, enjoy the games….

Washington at Notre Dame: This game is a lot more interesting than what it appeared in the pre-season. It’s just a matter of which team will show up. The Fighting Irish won a thrilled last Saturday night, defeating Purdue in the final minute, while Washinton lost at Stanford. Jimmy Clausen says he’ll have to battle through his turf toe for the reaminder of the season. As long as he’s playing, they’ve got a chance. Notre Dame 27, Washington 24.

LSU at Georgia: One of the biggest stories for the Tigers and the Bulldogs have been their defensive coordinators. John Chavis, LSU’s new defensive “chief” has been able to get just enough plays to keep the Bengal Tigers undefeated. Meanwhile, Georgia’s DC, Willie Martinez, has been like a sinking boat that continues to take on water. Fans and the media are in an uproar over the team’s performance. They’ll still be upset with the Bulldogs defensive play come Saturday night, but thankful for the offense. Georgia 37, LSU 31.

Auburn at Tennessee: The two most controversial offseason coaching hires face off in Knoxville with both Lane Kiffin and Gene Chizik heaping high praise onto one another. Can Auburn’s high flying offense outwit Tennessee’s Monte Kiffin? Just barely. Auburn 27, Tennessee 24.

USC at California: It’s been a challenging time on the field at Cal this week, while a challenging week off the field at USC. The Bears, who were exposed by Oregon last Saturday are reeling and don’t have time to feel sorry for themselves with the Trojans and undefeated Bruins next up on the schedule. The Trojans, on the other hand, are dealing with the horrific injury to RB Stafon Johnson. Look for SC to keep the pressure on Cal QB Kevin Riley and put an emotional week behind them. USC 38, Cal 24.

Oklahoma at Miami: The big question for this game is whether or not Sam Bradford will return to play for the Sooners. It won’t matter as the Sooners keep the momentum rolling against the Hurricans. Oklahoma 27, Miami 13.

Central Michigan at Buffalo: No team has fallen as far as Turner Gill’s squad. Gill who was one of the nation’s hottest coaches last season is mired in a 1-3 slump to start the season. Unfortunately, it won’t get any better on Saturday. Central Michigan 45, Buffalo 20.

Texas A&M at Arkansas: The upstart Aggies have been a huge surprise to start 2009. With Baylor QB Robert Griffin out for the season, the door is open for Mike Sherman’s squad to earn their first bowl victory since 2001. First, they’ll have to contend with the nation’s 4th best passing offense. Arkansas 38, Texas A&M 31.

What about you? Who are your picks for the weekend?

That’s only the first of many great games this weekend. Here’s a few that will have a big impact on the BCS Bowl Games, conference titles and National Championship picture.

Washington at Stanford: See if this story sounds familiar. Pac-10 team (USC) wins a big game (Ohio State) and then loses to a conference opponent (Washington). Could this happen to the Huskies after last week’s victory against the Trojans? Not with QB Jake Locker leading the way. Washington 24, Stanford 21.

UNC at Georgia Tech: Two questions will be answered early on in this contest. Can North Carolina and their quick defensive line bottle up the Jackets running attack? Secondly, can Jonathan Dwyer make enough plays to open up the passing game? In a close one, Georgia Tech 27, North Carolina 20.

Alabama at Arkansas: With Bobby Petrino and Nick Saban leading these programs, this will be a great chess match. I think this game is about a year away from really becoming interesting. Alabama 34, Arkansas 21

Penn State at Iowa: If the Hawkeyes are going to contend for the Big Ten Championship, now is the time to weigh in. JoePa and the Nittany Lions are too strong for Iowa. Penn State 31, Iowa 17.

Cal at Oregon. Both teams are coming off big wins and performances last week. The Bears won at Minnesota while Oregon defeated Utah, ending the nation’s longest winning streak. Will Cal get caught looking ahead to next week’s home game against Southern California? If they do, the Ducks will run them out of Autzen. Look for Cal RB and Heisman favorite Jahvid Best to do all the running on Saturday. Cal 30, Oregon 20.

TCU at Clemson: Can the Horned Frogs crash the BCS party? If they want to, they’ll need a signature win. This is it. TCU 27, Clemson 24.

Texas Tech at Houston: Taylor Potts and the Red Raiders Air Raid offense come rolling into Houston on Saturday. This is one of there last opportunities to make a big statement to the voters. This is the biggest home game for the Cougars in nearly 20 years. I don’t think it will leave the home fans smiling. Texas Tech 35, Houston 31.

South Florida at Florida State: If USF QB Matt Grothe were healthy, I’d believe the Bulls could contend with the Seminoles. FSU looks like they are starting to get it all together. FSU 41, South Florida 13.

Cal at Minnesota: The Golden Gophers have been on a surprising streak to start 2009 toughing out an OT win over Syracuse and a 20-13 win over Air Force. Meanwhile the Cal bears have been exactly as advertised, mauling their opponents en route to a 2-0 record. Cal should win handily if they can keep from focusing on next week’s game in Oregon. Expect Tedford to make sure that happens. Cal 41, Minnesota 17.

Utah at Oregon: Nothing has gone right for Oregon this season. Expect it to change on Saturday. Oregon 24, Utah 20.

Nebraska at Virginia Tech: Bo Pelini and his staff are really making a difference in Lincoln and can further cement their return with a win against the Hokies, which would avenge last season’s home loss. I want to pick Virginia Tech, but I’m just not sold on the Hokies this season. Hail to the Huskers. Nebraska 20, Virginia Tech 17.

Cincinnati at Oregon State. The darkhorse candidate for the Pac-10 hosts the trendy early-season favorite from the Big East. After watching Cincinnati dispatch Rutgers earlier this season, I’m sold until proven otherwise. Oregon State’s near loss at UNLV just solidifies my selection. Cincinnati 34, Oregon State 20.

Texas at Texas Tech. BCS National Championship game. Big XII Title Game berth. Undefeated Season. Think the Longhorns have some reasons to get up for this game on Saturday? So do I. Texas 41, Texas Tech 20.

Michigan State at Notre Dame: Both teams are a little down after last week. The Spartans fell to Central Michigan while the Irish gave up a late score to rival Michigan. The Irish always seem to lose this one when they gave momentum. I expect they’ll send a message and overwhelm MSU. Notre Dame 38, Michigan State 14.

West Virginia at Auburn. Two questions this week. Can Auburn stop West Virginia RB Noel Devine and will the 3-3-5 slow down the Tigers’ high-powered rushing attack. I’ll go with OC Gua Malzahn. Auburn 30, West Va 20.

Georgia at Arkansas: The Dogs have too much talent on both lines and will keep Hogs QB Ryan Mallett on the move all day. Georgia 23, Arkansas 20.

Tennessee at Florida. Mr. Kiffin, class is in session and all your talk this offseason just earned you a trip to Principal Meyer’s office. Florida 56, Tennessee 20.

Florida State at BYU: Cougars QB is one more big game away from jumping into the Heisman hunt. The Seminole fans are one game away from jumping off a bridge. Send out the Coast Guard. BYU 27, Florida State 24.

We’ve got several big games in week 2 of the College Football season.  Our picks for Saturday are below.

#3 USC at #8 Ohio State.  The Buckeyes were embarassed 35-3 in Los Angeles last season.  Jim Tressel spent this week fielding questions about his team’s ability to win games against Top 5 teams and wondering whether he now needs to micro-manage what players put on their eye blacks.  In case you didn’t hear about it, QB Terelle Pryor had “Vick”, in reference to Eagles QB Mike Vick on one of his eyes last week.  Even with the game in Columbus, I get the sense USC and their freshman QB, Matt Barkley, will come into this game loose and ready to play.  USC 35, Ohio State 17.

South Carolina at #21 Georgia.  It was a tale of two games for the Dawgs last weekend, with senior QB Joe Cox leading a great drive to open the contest, followed by a Oklahoma State defense that clamped down on Georgia’s offensive attack.  If Steve Spurrier’s Gamecocks can stay patient and not make too many mistakes, they’ll walk out of Athens with a win.  With Arkansas, Arizona State, LSU and Tennessee on Georgia’s schedule the next four weeks, this season could spiral out of control in a hurry.  South Carolina 20, Georgia 17.

#18 Notre Dame at Michigan.  Both coaches, Rich Rodriguez and Charlie Weis really could use a victory here.  Neither have had great offseasons and both are feeling the pressure from their constituents.  The Irish defense was stout last weekend against a tremendous Nevada offense.  If QB Jimmy Clausen can have a big week against Michigan and the following week (Michigan State), he will start to get some serious love for the Heisman.  Look for the Fighting Irish to show that last week was not a fluke.  Notre Dame 27, Michigan 24.

#16 TCU at Virginia.  This is a statement game for the Horned Frogs, who are out to get some press and demonstrate they belong in the BCS conversation with Boise State and BYU.  In light of last week’s loss by Al Groh’s Cavaliers to William & Mary, is this the beginning of the end for him?  This won’t help.  TCU 41, Virginia 20.

Mississippi State at Auburn.  Last season’s 3-2 victory by the Tigers showed that the spread offense on Tony Franklin wasn’t working, which contributed to his mid-season firing and the unraveling of Tommy Tuberville at the University.  New coaches Dan Mullen (MSU) and Gene Chizik (Auburn) should show they have both programs moving in a positive direction.  The winner of this one won’t finish last in the SEC West, but the loser might.  Auburn 31, Mississippi State 17.

Air Force at Minnesota.  The Golden Gophers got all they wanted from a weak Syracuse team last weekend, emerging victorious in OT.  Meanwhile, Air Force destroyed Nicholls State 72-0.  The Mountain West conference will continue to build respect.  Air Force 34, Minnesota 24.

UCLA at Tennessee.  This will be the first big win of the Lane Kiffin era as the Vols get revenge for last season’s stunning loss at the Rose Bowl.  Home field will be a big factor in this one.  Tennessee 33, UCLA 27.

East Carolina at West Virginia.  After Cincinnati’s demolition of Rutgers last weekend, combined with West Virginia’s sluggish victory over FCS opponent Liverty, it will be interesting to see how the Mountaineers come out this weekend.  Skip Holtz will have his Pirates ready.  Look for WVU to pull away late in the contest.  West Virginia 28, East Carolina 24.

Purdue at Oregon.  How will the Ducks respond following the suspension of RB LeGarrette Blount?  New coach Chip Kelly would like to see his offense back on track this week.  Meanwhile, can the Big Ten finally get a non-conference win at Autzen Stadium?  Oregon 20, Purdue 13.

What are your picks for this weekend?

Enjoy the games!